Money talks as new Sheffield Steelers star faces old club Braehead Clan

Zack Fitzgerald

Published:21:54Tuesday 11 August 2015

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Braehead Clan couldn’t compete with Steelers’ spending when it came to holding on to defenceman Zack Fitzgerald.

The two teams lock horns this weekend in back-to-back friendlies in Sheffield, heralding the start of a new season.

Clan coach Ryan Finnnerty didn’t want his prize asset to leave Glasgow, but he still wishes the 30 year old American well.

“He is a big loss, sure” he said. “But players have short careers and if they can make more money it is tough to keep them. We love Fitzy and miss him, but he got a big enough pay offer that made the difference. This is what happens in hockey and now he is one of their’s.”

Finnerty said the strong-arm blue liner was a “great team guy and a solid player, as tough as they can be.” And he said of the Steelers’ fans’ perception:”I bet that he turns out to be better than they expected him to be, he is certainly not a one-dimensional player.”

Finnerty was pleased to keep hold of Stefan Meyer, who has been pondering retirement. “He is huge for us.”